massage
A natural therapy which has been used to treat most musculoskeletal problems for many thousands of years.
Massage has many benefits, both physical and psychological and works on many levels, making it a versatile and effective treatment method.
Massage can be used in a complementary role with other therapies and can greatly speed recovery because of its wide ranging benefits, including:
- minor everyday injuries that are painful and may affect a persons occupation, posture, sport or quality of life.
- chronic injuries that were not treated properly at an early stage
- injury prevention and performance enhancement
- improved circulation
- improved flexibility and mobility
- improvement of stress related problems
- release of endorphins
- reduction of stress hormones, boosting immunity
- reduction in muscle tension – especially the neck and jaw
- stimulation of the lymphatic system
- relaxation
- increased soft tissue recovery
- reduction in anxiety and depression
- improved sleep
- lowering of heart rate, blood pressure
- reduction of pain
- improved athletic performance
pain, stress & tension relief
Where a muscle has been habitually held in a shortened position due to postural, occupational or emotional factors, this degree of tension will become accepted by the nervous system as a ‘normal’ situation. It becomes uncomfortable to relax and stretch and furthermore, tension will continue to increase. This tension restricts local blood flow which does not help the healing process.
The following techniques can help restore function and reduce pain/tension:
neuro-muscular technique (NMT)
When musculoskeletal problems occur there is a change in tension (tone) of the tissues concerned. This occurs naturally and is controlled by the nervous system, to deal with this it is necessary to work on a neuro-muscular level. Deep pressure into a tender spot results in relaxation in the area (reflex effect).
muscle energy technique (MET)
Collective name for a variety of techniques that stretch, strengthen or break down fibrous adhesions. Used to treat muscle imbalances.
soft tissue release (STR)
Technique combining friction, stretch and neuro-muscular pressure to produce a quick and effective result in releasing local areas of severe soft tissue tension.
acupressure
Sometimes called needle finger therapy, uses manual pressure to stimulate points on the body, instead of the insertion of needles. Acupressure is safe, can be performed anywhere and requires no special equipment.